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Alarm codes.

Have you ever wondered if there was an easier way to manage them?

Commonly, businesses (big and small) provide each staff member with a unique code that they use to arm/disarm their alarm system.

Despite the commonality of this approach, it leaves stores and businesses susceptible to a number of security breaches.

Imagine this… you’ve provided a staff member with a code at the start of their employment. They leave under disgruntled circumstances and you can’t remember or didn’t record what code they used to arm/disarm your alarm system. This leaves your business vulnerable to the unlikely but very real possibility of unauthorised access.

Not ideal…

Another approach businesses take is by providing everyone with the same code.

It’s not hard to understand why this can be an issue. Not knowing who is arming or disarming your system at different hours throughout the day can lead to difficult conversations and possible mistrust within your organisation in the case of any intrusion.

The code might even be irresponsibly shared to associates which could result in further security breaches.

Either of these methods sound familiar?

The Solution.

Each method has its own pros and cons, but what if there was a unique solution that remedies the issues above?

We’ve got the answer for you.

It’s called Pocketsecure.

Pocketsecure is a phone app (available on both iOS and Android) that pairs with our back to base monitoring service, allowing users to arm and disarm their businesses through their mobile phones.

Given that it’s 2021 and almost everyone has a mobile phone, it’s a clear solution.

But how is it better than ‘old-school’ methods?
 

 
 
Remote Arming
Well for starters, it enables you to remotely arm and disarm your alarm system through your mobile phone from wherever you are (as long as you have internet connection on your phone of course!).

Can’t remember if you armed the store after leaving for the night? Check your phone.

If it’s not, simply arm your business from the train, bus, the couch or wherever else you are during your busy schedule.
 

Easier Staff Management
As mentioned earlier, traditional methods of managing alarm systems and their individual codes can cause a number of problems and introduce a number of vulnerabilities to a business.

Keeping track of staff member user codes is often an arduous and manual task that is very prone to human error and mismanagement.

The introduction of Pocketsecure allows you to view users who have access to the system and when they are arming/disarming the system.

This makes it easy to manage staff in high-turnover retail environments where access needs to be given or revoked at the click of a finger – provides managers with a clear list of who has access and who doesn’t.
 

Multi-Site Capabilities
Have multiple business sites? Multiple stores? Perhaps multiple warehouses?

All with their individual alarm systems?

Well from the one app, and the one account, you’ll be able to easily manage all your sites efficiently and effectively.

Our team will be able to help integrate all your systems to avoid confusion when it comes to arming and disarming multiple sites with different systems. This saves you from having to remember a number of different codes or arming methods.
 

More Secure
The ultimate goal of a security system is to keep yourself, your employees and your business safe and secure.

With an integrated arming app such as Pocketsecure, you will only be making your system more secure.

How?

Referring back to our initial point, codes can often get mismanaged or irresponsibly shared, resulting in system and business vulnerabilities.

By allocating each person an account, you’ll have complete visibility over your whole business, who uses the alarm, and/or when.

Have a disgruntled ex-employee? Simply delete their Pocketsecure access without having to worry about what codes they might have access to or may perhaps know.

Conclusion

Security shouldn’t be at the forefront of your mind, nor should it be a hassle.

As a business owner or manager, there’s no doubt that you have more important things to attend to.

In today’s age, alarm codes can almost be considered outdated because of the vulnerabilities they can introduce into a business environment.

That’s why as a security company, our goal has been to make things as easy as possible for you.

Pocketsecure is one of the features that we provide with all our back to base monitoring plans, and is beneficial for not only operational but security reasons too.

If you’d like to learn more about this, visit here OR give our monitoring specialists a call on 1300 73 83 93

Security alarm systems have been the most effective way of protecting homes against
intruders by way of a deterrent.

However… criminals today have become much more cunning and sophisticated leaving both occupants and their valuables at serious risk.

So simply triggering a siren onsite is no longer a satisfactory solution.

This is where alarm monitoring comes into effect.

Now the question is… should you choose a self-monitoring option or a professional monitoring service?


 

Professional back-to-base monitoring

The connection of a security alarm system to a professional monitoring service can transform any alarm from a noise maker into a potential life saver.

How you ask?

By giving the system the ability to instantly communicate with an emergency response team 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
 
 
Emergency responses

Immediate responses can include dispatching the Police, Ambulance, Fire Brigade and/or local security guards to ensure homeowners get help when they need it most.
 
Similar to a home insurance policy, the benefits of the service often aren’t seen until they’re required… but when they are, a monitoring service is most definitely worth the investment.
 
 
Remote arming

With a professional monitoring service, you get access to a phone application which provides you with a number of different perks:

  • Remote arming from wherever you are (you can check to see if your system is armed even if you’re on holiday interstate!)
  • Get alerts straight to your smartphone
  • View signals that have come through

 
Insurance discounts

While professional back-to-base monitoring involves a monthly investment, the burden may be a lot less than what you may think!

With most home insurance providers, you will be able to get a discount if you have a professionally monitored alarm system, so you may be paying next to nothing for a more secure home or business!
 
 
Identification of system faults or difficulties

Keeping your alarm free of faults is much easier when you have someone else looking at your system 24/7. With a monitoring service, a security provider will be able to identify any abnormalities whenever they arise and will be able to contact you to discuss what the next steps are.

There’s nothing worse than your system faulting at the time you need it most!


 

Self-monitoring

Another alternative is to monitor your alarm system using a self-monitoring service. Often requiring an additional part for the system to function, it allows you to view alarm signals from your phone. Rather than leaving it to a security company to manage your system for you, it relies on you to take immediate action as there are no emergency support actions that can be acted upon.
 
 
Phone application

Like a back-to-base monitoring service, self-monitoring is solely dependent on the phone app, and unlike the former, relies on a constant internet connection.

Because of this, it is unfortunately much more susceptible to down time and security breaches due to events such as power outages.

The most common functions amongst most systems include being a remote arming/disarming functionality and being able to receive alarm events as push notifications (similar to a professional monitoring option).


 

Summary

Your safety, your family’s safety, and the protection of your home is nothing to take lightly. It goes without saying that we have a favourite when it comes to achieving the lot.

Professional monitoring is by far the most appropriate solution when it comes to monitoring your alarm system and keeping you safe, sound and secure.

The benefits speak for themselves and self-monitoring doesn’t quite provide the same peace-of-mind that a fully serviced and professionally monitored system can do for you.

If you’re after a simple app that allows you to arm/disarm your system self-monitoring could be the way to go, but if your end goal is to secure your home and the people you most care about, back-to-base has you covered.

Our monitoring plans can be implemented for less than a coffee a day! Speak to our security specialists today on 1300 73 83 93 to get your professional recommendations.

After months of mastering Zoom calls, discovering a newfound love for finish-at-home meals, and binging on Netflix series – everything from Tiger King to The Last Dance – Melbournians have finally made it out to the other side.

We’re easing back to what life was like before lockdown, and more of us making the most out of the relaxed restrictions. Seeing friends and family, dining out, travelling out of town and even returning back to the office.

As we start spending more time away from home – whether it’s during the day or weekend away – it’s worth reminding ourselves that our homes will be vacant more often. Meaning more opportunities for break-ins, burglary and property security offences to occur.
 
 

Increased crime rates across Victoria in past 12 months and potentially another spike over the Summer period

 
 
In September 2020, Crime Statistics Agency released new data reporting Victoria recorded its largest yearly spike in crime, with incidents risen by 5.6 per cent — an increase of 21,805 incidents to 407,768 — in 12 months. Theft and security offences were among the common crime incidents that increased during this time.

Combining this information with historical trends showing increased crime rates during economic downturns and increased burglaries over the summer months, Signal Security advises homeowners to assess their security measures to continue to keep their families and home safe.

Did you know that crime rates increase during economic downturns?

Downturns such as recessions come with a large increase in unemployment rates in youths, which have historically led to increased petty crime and theft.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), unemployment in our country has increased by just over 45% – the large majority being youths and young people. This is not only a huge upset regarding the unemployment rates but also the potential increase of crime within our communities.

Before we delve into the advice, it’s worth understanding the most common reasons burglars target a premise.

In 2015, a study was conducted of police detainees, who were found guilty of committing breaking and entering offences, to gain insight on burglary in Australia. Although years have passed since the study, there are lessons and learnings that are still highly relevant — especially, as we spend more time outside and away from home.

There are two main areas of focus for targeting premises, as reported from the study, a lack of activity around the property and the visibility/attractiveness of the property.

Lack of activity was indicated by:

  • Houses that appeared vacant or unoccupied
  • No vehicles parked in the driveway
  • No lights turned on inside the house in the evening
  • Rubbish bins left outside on the curb
  • An overflowing mailbox

And visibility/attraction came down to:

  • Houses located in an affluent area
  • Houses that had an expensive car in the driveway
  • Any valuable items on display or in view either in the yard on from a door or window

Our advice for keeping your home and family safe.

Improved security and electronic security is reported as one of the most effective ways to deter burglars from attempting to enter a property. And most importantly, an effective way to ensure the safety of you and your family. After all, the most precious possession —that is irreplaceable—is … OURSELVES.

Achieving peace of mind is not simply about installing a CCTV camera outside of your premise. At Signal Security, we take a logical approach to determining which systems and services should be considered to deliver maximum impact and return on investment.

You can download our FREE booklet on How To Achieve True Peace of Mind with Electronic Security Here

In short, there are three key steps in achieving peace of mind and our recommendation in approaching electronic security for your home:
 

  1. Prevent Loss and/or Harm with Alarm Systems

    There is nothing more effective in preventing harm and loss than a professionally installed intrusion detection system (burglar alarm) with fixed or portable panic buttons. Depending on the size, shape and layout of a property, coupled with its level of risk, an intrusion detection system can come in all shapes and sizes with various types of detection devices i.e. motion detectors, door/window switches and glass breakage detectors.

    More on Alarm Systems here.

  2.  

  3. Initiate Emergency Response with Alarm Monitoring

    In its raw form, an intrusion detection system is a powerful tool that drives intruders away with its loud sirens and flashing lights but relies heavily on neighbours and passers-by to act swiftly in the case of an emergency. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age sounding alarm sirens will more often than not be ignored.

    The only way to guarantee a response is to connect your intrusion detection system to a professional security monitoring centre. With highly trained security monitoring professionals available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week to ensure that every alarm signal received is dealt with in the shortest amount of time possible and that help can be sent in times that you need it most.

    More on Alarm Monitoring here.

  4.  

  5. Verify and Capture Evidence with Camera Systems

    If a professionally installed intrusion detection system will aid in the prevention of harm and loss, and the addition of a professional monitoring service to the system will initiate an emergency response. Then what next? We need to find a way to assist with the real-time verification of events as well as being able to retrospectively go back in time and review any events of interest which leads us to integrate surveillance cameras (CCTV system) into the fold.

    More on Camera Systems or CCTV here.

Leave your quarantine woes behind (and fleeting thoughts of potential break-ins too)

The thought of our homes not being a safe space can be jarring and a break-in is the last thing we want after the year we’ve had.

While we can’t predict when or what’s going to happen, we can put the right measures in place to keep our homes and family safe.

As always, our friendly, knowledgeable team of security specialists can assist you with any questions or security challenges you may be experiencing.

You can organise a free, no-obligation on-site security risk assessment by contact our team on 1300 73 83 93 or sending an enquiry from our contact page.

A home alarm system can come in many shapes and sizes. With something as important as your own security, it’s essential to understand the process, things to look out for, and what to expect when trying to achieve TRUE peace of mind.

Home security systems should not be treated as a one-size-fits-all solution which is why we recommend that if you’re being referred to an “alarm package” – which unfortunately happens often within the electronic security industry, you should start to look elsewhere.

Like a home, not all security systems are the same. Factors such as the size and design of your home, your existing equipment, whether you have pets or not, and many more, can all affect the final recommended solution.

Therefore, we’ve listed several important points which help to answer the question, “What makes the best home alarm system?”
 
 

The best home alarm systems have motion detection.

 

 
Motion detectors are by no means the be-all and end-all of a home alarm system however they are the most common for good reason. They assist in covering a large area and as the name suggests, can detect any motion occurring within the space that the device is occupying. We know what you’re thinking… What about my dogs and/or cats? Luckily, nowadays most high-quality detectors have a form of pet-immunity allowing your furry friends to roam free whilst going unnoticed – it’s worth checking with a security specialist to determine whether the system you are looking for is pet-friendly.
 
 

The best home alarm systems have perimeter protection.

 

 
The aim of a security system is to mitigate harm and/or loss, which is only as effective as the solution itself. This is why the best home alarm systems also have a form of perimeter protection through the use and integration of reed switches on doors and windows, and glass break detectors in areas with lots of glazing or windows with intricate framing. Adding these devices helps to expand your protected area by alerting you before any actual “intrusion” occurs, minimising the chance of “smash and grabs”.
 
 

The best home alarm systems are professionally monitored.

 

 
In its raw form, an intrusion detection system is a powerful tool that drives intruders away with its loud sirens and flashing lights but relies heavily on neighbours and passers-by to act swiftly in the case of an emergency. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age sounding alarm sirens will more often than not be ignored.

Adding a professional monitoring service to your system is an easy way to transform your “noisemaker” into a potential lifesaver and contrary to what you may think a lifesaving service such as this could cost, it’s actually really affordable with your investment being less than half a cup of coffee a day.
 
 
Summary

When looking for the best home alarm system, it’s important to look at the whole solution rather than brands or product. Make sure that you steer clear of “set packages” and speak to a qualified security specialist who would be able to provide professional advice to ensure that you are getting the most appropriate set-up for your home and family.

If you would like to speak to one of our security specialists about your tailored home intrusion protection, simply contact us here or call our Customer Care Centre on 1300 73 83 93.

The term “peace of mind” is referred to a lot these days especially within the security industry. Time and time again companies promise that their product and/or service will provide it, but very rarely are they able to demonstrate exactly how they will deliver on their promise.
 
In order to solve this age old challenge, we must first ensure we gain a deeper understanding of what causes ones angst as well as have the tenured experience to know which solution or more often than not, which combination of solutions are required to adequately mitigate the risk.
 
With 20 years of experience protecting thousands of Australian homes and businesses, Signal Security has been building on its experience and continuously evolving its thinking with the aim of formalising a methodology that all team members can be trained in to help its customers achieve “true” peace of mind.
 
At the core of this methodology is what Signal Security CEO and Co-founder Justin Nesvanulica refers to as the “Hierarchy of Electronic Security” – the logical order to which systems and services should be considered to deliver maximum impact and return on investment.
 
Most people are under the impression that the number one priority for the security industry is to prevent loss and/or damage to property. In fact, the industry’s core priority is much more meaningful, it’s to prevent harm to the most valuable asset we will ever possess… OURSELVES!
 
Therefore it is important to understand that achieving peace of mind is not simply about installing a CCTV camera outside of your premise but about understanding why certain systems are installed, what their core purpose is and how layering numerous systems and services will go a long way to stopping those fleeting thoughts of whether or not your security has been compromised.

Step 1. Prevent Harm and/or Loss

 
alarm system
 
With so much on the line, where do we start? There is nothing more effective in preventing harm and loss than a professionally installed intrusion detection system (burglar alarm) with fixed or portable panic buttons. Depending on the size, shape and layout of a property, coupled with its level of risk, an intrusion detection system can come in all shapes and sizes with various types of detection devices i.e. motion detectors, door/window switches and glass breakage detectors.
 
Nonetheless, the key to preventing harm and loss is trying to detect an unauthorised entry as close to the perimeter as possible and ensuring there are an adequate amount of warning lights and sirens once activated, the attention drawn to the property will make even the most brazen criminals limit their time within the property, therefore minimising the opportunity for loss and in most cases preventing it completely.
 
Having sirens sound as early as possible becomes even more important if there are people residing in the property at the time of an invasion as it provides valuable seconds for an attempt to retreat to the most secure areas of the property. Fixed or portable panic buttons are an extremely effective way to activate sirens moments before or during an attempted invasion as occupants can trigger sirens as soon as they feel threatened. The piercing sound of internal sirens are designed to cause havoc on the human middle ear which in itself will naturally drive intruders out reducing the likelihood of altercations occurring between them and the occupants inside.
 
Intrusion detection systems are cost effective, provide exceptional value for money and should be considered first and foremost before all other security products. An intrusion detection system is the only solution that will actually minimise the impact of an unauthorised intrusion and should form the foundation of any comprehensive security solution.

Step 2. Initiate an Emergency Response

 
emergency duress buttons
 
In its raw form, an intrusion detection system is a powerful tool that drives intruders away with its loud sirens and flashing lights but relies heavily on neighbours and passers-by to act swiftly in the case of an emergency. Unfortunately, in today’s day and age sounding alarm sirens will more often than not be ignored.
 
The only way to guarantee a response is to connect your intrusion detection system to a professional security monitoring centre. With highly trained security monitoring professionals available 24-hours a day, 7 days a week to ensure that every alarm signal received is dealt with in the shortest amount of time possible and that help can be sent in times that you need it most.
 
Most people are unaware that all mainstream intrusion detection systems are designed to be professionally monitored and have inbuilt features to request help via the monitoring centre, where the services of the Police, Ambulance and Fire Brigade can all be summoned at the touch of a button. In addition to being notified in the unfortunate event of a break in, you will also have a quick and convenient way of requesting assistance in the event you are faced with a life-threatening emergency.
 
Adding a professional monitoring service to your system is an easy way to transform your “noise maker” into a potential life saver and contrary to what you may think a lifesaving service such as this could cost, it’s actually really affordable with your investment being less than half a cup of coffee a day.

Step 3. Verification & Collection of Evidence

 
remote viewing cctv
 
If a professionally installed intrusion detection system will aid in the prevention of harm and loss, and the addition of a professional monitoring service to the system will initiate an emergency response. Then what next? We need to find a way to assist with the real time verification of events as well as being able to retrospectively go back in time and review any events of interest which leads us to integrating surveillance cameras (CCTV system) into the fold.
 
Should an unfortunate event occur at your property the monitoring centre will call you to inform you of the breach. Being informed that a movement detector has been activated is one thing, however being able to cross reference it with live video footage is another. Having the ability to quickly and easily review as much information as possible on your smart device or laptop computer pertaining to the incident is crucial to obtaining the quickest Police response possible. A CCTV system will allow you to see what happened, show you how it happened, provide a full timeline of events from start to finish and give you every opportunity of identifying those responsible. Without this information it will be almost impossible to track down and prosecute the perpetrators and recover any of your losses.
 
A professionally installed CCTV system is the perfect companion to your intrusion detection system and professional monitoring service and should not be considered before the previous solutions are in place. Without them intruders will have nothing to drive them away from the premise and will allow them an ample amount of time to spend searching your property for items of value. Nothing is more frustrating that being a victim of a burglary only to watch recorded footage of how they did it and got away with it. Worse yet, arriving onsite only to find that your CCTV recorder with all your recorded footage was also taken.
 
Adding a professionally installed CCTV system is an important addition to overall security and should be treated as such. Being a passive solution, CCTV will never stop or minimise an incident from occurring it will merely show you how it happened.

Remember, peace-of-mind can come from the implementation of a range of security products and services, however, as a security provider with over 20 years’ experience, we believe that the way to achieve true peace of mind is by following the above steps.
If true peace of mind is your goal, there is no better way to go about your electronic security than making sure that you’re minimising loss and harm, initiating an immediate response and finally, verifying incidents and gathering evidence.
 
Want to achieve “true” peace of mind?
Our friendly, knowledgeable team of security specialists are on hand to assist with any security challenges you may be experiencing. To organise a free, no obligation on site security risk assessment please contact our team on 1300 73 83 93.

signal security
 

Before you start thinking about sipping cocktails by a pool in the hot European sun lets first think about why you are leaving Australia in the first place… Because it’s cold, dark, windy, wet and miserable… Right?
 
Well these very reasons are exactly the same reasons why we see a huge spike in burglaries and property theft over the winter months. How so? Well it’s quite simple once you think about it.
 
 
A) People are vacating their homes in doves and heading away for overseas vacations for weeks at a time which makes this very attractive for would be intruders.

B) Its darker for longer therefore the bad guys have an increased window of opportunity where they won’t be seen.

C) The cracking of thunder, the howling winds and the sound of rain pelting down makes it extremely difficult to hear if a door is kicked in or window is smashed.
 
 
And to make matters worse, unlike the good old days the reliance on neighbours is no longer a viable option. This has resulted in many families adopting the latest in home security technologies to help better protect their homes and loved ones. Let’s face it the last thing you want whilst away is to have those random thoughts about the security of your home back in Australia especially just as your tray of cocktails arrive.

 

Get a security alarm system professionally installed.

Most homes already have one but if yours doesn’t make sure you have a professionally installed security alarm system. Ensure you get a system that has the a night time and day times arming modes and one that has panic buttons to give you access to the Police, Ambulance and Fire Brigade. This way you can be protected whilst you head away overseas as well as whilst you are home.

 

Have your alarm professionally monitored.

Signal Security

Panic buttons are enabled when your alarm professionally monitored.

Monitoring is compatible with most if not all modern security systems (installed within the last 10 years). Having a professionally monitored alarm means you will always be guaranteed a response from a licensed monitoring professional. Our monitoring team are available to assist 24 hours a day 7 days a week and can provide immediate access to emergency services as well as Australia’s largest network of security guards.

 

When choosing alarm security monitoring, go wireless!

Wireless monitoring provides many benefits than compared to traditional ‘analogue’ phone line monitoring. Below are just a few of those benefits:

 

Remote arming and disarming via your smart phone.

Signal Security

Our Pocket Secure phone app

Never experience that sinking feeling again, when you are travelling to the airport and the realisation of not arming your alarm kicks in. Just pull out your smart phone, check the armed status of your alarm and if you did forget simply arm your system with the touch of a button.

 

Wireless monitoring checks in with us every 12 hours, so you can enjoy the scenery.

The monitoring centre will receive test signals from the alarm system twice a day to make sure your alarms wireless monitoring module is operational and communicating as it should. Should something go wrong you or someone on your emergency contact list will be notified as soon as a signal is missed.

 

Receive SMS and email alerts when the alarm is armed and disarmed.

Security Alarm SMS Notifications

Receive SMS phone alerts in the event of alarm detection

Should your neighbours need to feed your pet whilst you’re away, you will get an alert each time your alarm is disarmed and armed to confirm and show what time they arrived and left. This function is also great for verifying the time and attendance of tradesman, cleaners, gardeners and contractors whilst away.

 

No additional telecommunication costs.

Unlike traditional phone line monitoring that uses a local call (20c) for every signal sent to the monitoring centre. Wireless monitoring uses the data network that is inclusive of your monthly investment.

No hidden costs means no nasty surprise bills in the mail from your telco provider. Isn’t it great not having to prepare for the unexpected.

If you are keeping a phone line purely for the alarm system we have good news. This can now be cancelled to save you even more money (Approx. $50 per month).

 

NBN Ready.

Signal Security

If the NBN is due to rollout in your local area whilst you are away (or whilst you are back home) the last thing you want is for your alarm to lose connection with the monitoring service. If you are on phone line monitoring consider changing to wireless monitoring so you don’t have to deal with any headaches.

And if that’s not enough to convince you to jump on the extremely popular wireless monitoring band wagon before you jet away. It’s extremely easy to operate and they say proof is in the pudding. Just set and forget, enjoy your holiday and let us look after your home whilst you enjoy your time away.

 

If you would like to speak to a member of our security specialist team to discuss how to better protect your home and family, please call 1300 73 83 93.

Of late, it has been impossible to turn on the TV, scroll through social media or even pick up a newspaper without reading about the huge spike in aggravated home invasions and carjackings. It’s literally everywhere which is unfortunately causing more and more concern among our local communities every day. But what’s even more unfortunate… It’s reality!

Naturally this has caused many families and couples to contact us, asking what they can do to increase their level of safety. The Herald Sun’s latest article has Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner Steve Fontana stated that ‘everyone should make their homes harder to break into’.

As we aim to provide peace of mind to all Australians, we have compiled our top tips to increase your security and provide genuine protection so you can live life with the peace of mind you deserve.

 

Get an Alarm and Make Sure it’s Professionally Monitored

Signal Security

It’s astounding that with alarm monitoring rates as low as they are; there are still families who would rather risk the safety of themselves and their loved ones by trying to self-monitor their alarm (having it ring their mobile) or worse yet not having any form of monitoring what so ever.

Believe it or not, the overwhelming reason why people are risking it all is to save as little as $1.50 a day.

By having a professionally monitored security system in place you will have trained professionals ready to assist in the unfortunate event of a life threatening emergency e.g. home invasion. Depending on the situation at hand these professionals can quickly respond and where required deploy emergency services and or private security guards to assist you.

Most mainstream security systems installed within the last 10 years are compatible with professional monitoring and can be connected with little or no upfront investment. Once activated monitoring will open up numerous life saving features previously not available to those systems that were un-monitored or self-monitored. These life-saving features include fixed panic buttons, silent duress codes and wireless panic pendants all of which designed to alert those that are most capable of assisting you in your time of need.

 

Enable Stay At Home Arming

emergency duress buttons

Maximise the value of your alarm system by enabling stay at home arming mode. Most modern-day security systems allow you to use your alarm when you are home by turning some devices on whilst leaving others off.

Most families are unaware that their alarm systems even had such a function but once educated there was no hesitation and they immediately looked to arm parts of their home like door/window switches or even outdoor movement detectors whilst at home. This provided the freedom to move around the home, whilst still keeping their home safe, sound and secure from any unlawful entry especially whilst sleeping at night.

 

CCTV Is the Way of the Future

With technology evolving and the demand for higher levels of security increasing, CCTV is rapidly finding its way into homes all over the country. In addition to a monitored alarm system, CCTV is the perfect companion allowing home owners to verify any alarms from their smart phones as well as providing a continuous record of events, enabling police to piece together a time line in order to catch and prosecute those who are doing the wrong thing.

We recommend having a professionally installed High Definition CCTV system with night vision cameras and remote viewing function to give you the best chance of quickly identifying any incidence of concern.

The higher the definition of cameras you install the better chance there will be of capturing the finer details such as number plates, tattoos and facial features to assist with any police investigations.

 

Never Open the Door to a Stranger Again

Video intercoms provide a fantastic way to stay safe inside your home whilst speaking to any unknown visitors who arrives at your front door.

In some cases you may have a front gate which you can grant access to a visitor from the comfort of your own home.

Some video intercoms also have the ability to record snap shots and or video of all missed calls throughout the day. This is particularly important if a potential intruder is casing out your property more often than not they will ring a door bell numerous times to ensure no one is home. Unbeknownst to them, their face is being recorded at every attempt of ringing the doorbell.

There you have it, our four top tips to increasing your level of home security without costing the earth.

We understand that no two homes are alike and no two family’s requirements are the same, therefore our team of security specialists are readily available to thoroughly understand your requirements and provide the best possible advice available.

 

If you would like to speak with one of our friendly security specialists please don’t hesitate to call our team on 1300 73 83 93.

The National Broadband Network (NBN) has been rolling out across the country for a while now and is expected to be completed by 2021, well so we are told anyway.

Most people know the NBN is designed to increase communication speeds for phones and internet. But what I didn’t know was the impact it had on my monitored alarm system whilst my entire street was being upgraded.
 
 
How does my monitored alarm get affected?

I’ve had a monitored alarm for as long as I can remember and when I was advised of the NBN coming through my area, I thought great I can stream and download even more, faster! What I didn’t know was the NBN Co disconnects the old home phone line from my alarm and never connects it back up.

After receiving a call from my monitoring centre saying they were no longer receiving signals, I started to panic. The NBN technicians had disconnected the phone line. Great just what I needed. This meant I could no longer have my home protected without the reliance on my neighbours, hoping they were home whilst I went to work each day.

I called my security company to ask what options I had to get my alarm back online. They suggested I upgrade to wireless monitoring so if the phone line ever gets cut or street works happen again my monitoring service will never be stopped. This is awesome; I never want to have any down time again especially as I just purchased a new TV and speaker system for the lounge room!
 
 
Wireless monitoring is the national change as phone lines are being made redundant

With the use of my mobile, I never really used the landline. I was paying a phone line connection fee only for my alarm system to be monitored; this allowed me to save money by having my phone line connection stopped.

In addition my security company told me I would receive two extra benefits by having wireless monitoring. I could arm and disarm my alarm system via my smartphone. Just the other day I rushed out the door and whilst on the train my heart dropped knowing I forgot to protect my home with my alarm system not being armed. I need not worry; at the touch of a button on my smart phone I’ve armed my system.

I could also receive email and text message alerts when my alarm was armed and disarmed.

I usually work late and knowing when my partner comes home from work by disarming the alarm puts my mind at ease, especially when she forgets to text me.

In short I wish I had wireless monitoring before the NBN rolled out in my street. The stress of having my home not protected during this time was not worth the toll it took on me. If you want to provide your home with extra security I strongly recommend you explore wireless monitoring, especially if the NBN is coming through your area in the near future.
 
 

If you would like to find out more about what security products or services are available to home owners affected by the NBN Click Here.

 

If you wish to speak with our friendly home NBN security specialists don’t hesitate give us a call on 1300 73 83 93.

No longer is the great Australian dream staying in the same home for 20 years, rather a flexible and spontaneous shift in moving home is rapidly becoming the norm due to evolving career and lifestyle choices. As a result this causes hundreds of homes to be vacated and re occupied every single day.

It’s no secret but moving one’s home is the bane of our existence, so how do you make one of the most stressful transitions become as easy as going on a Sunday cruise.

 
 
Step 1: Fill The Tank

Once you have reached an agreement with the real estate agent and locked in your move in date, before you start ordering new blinds and furniture, start thinking about security! After all what’s the point of moving all your precious items and shiny new things into a home without any protection?

 
 
Step 2: Drop The Top

Before moving in, often you will have an opportunity to have a final inspection of your new pad. This is the perfect opportunity to arrange for your security company to meet you onsite to assess your home to organise a tailored quote.

Your security specialist should be licenced and is there to provide advice on all different security systems whether it be a monitored alarm system, CCTV or an intercom system.

In some cases your new home may have existing security equipment, whilst not knowing what state it’s in this is the perfect opportunity to have advice given and the system assessed, no matter whether the system requires a service, a full or partial upgrade.

 
 
Step 3: Hit Cruise Control

When you have received your tailored quote and you are happy to proceed it’s important to organise the upgrade or installation date as close to the settlement date as possible, before any other tradesmen. In some cases the previous owner or landlord may be kind enough to grant you access prior to the move in date, it’s always advisable to ask.

Monitored alarms and CCTV systems will provide a record of events which will allow you to keep tabs on all other tradesmen you may have after settlement.

Monitored alarm systems can track start and finish times of tradesmen whilst you are not home. This ensures any disparities in labour invoices are corrected, as you will be notified when your alarm is turned off or on, i.e. when tradesmen come and go.

We recommend you provide a temporary pin code per trade that you can set up and then easily delete once works are completed.

CCTV cameras allows you to view your cameras in real time on your PC or smart device, this allows you to check in whilst at work to make sure the tradies are doing their job (not taking excessive smokos’).

 
 
Step 4: Pump Up The Tunes

After all trades are finished you can move all your belongings into your new home with the peace of mind knowing they will be safe and sound. It’s important if you have installed new and expensive equipment into your home that you do not advertise this to the world by leaving the branded cardboard boxes out the front. The last thing you want is your new home entertainment system to be stolen.

 
 
Step 5: Enjoy the scenery

Finally, now you’ve moved and settled in its important to introduce yourself to your neighbours. They can help you feel safer in your new area and in the long term this benefits all parties as you can speak to each other about any news and events whilst fostering a real sense of community.

It’s also great to join any local community initiatives such as the neighbourhood watch, social or sporting clubs as this will allow you to get to know your new community and in turn the local community learn more about you.

 
 
Hamish May – Electronic Security Monitoring Specialist
 
If you would like to find out more about what security products or services are available to home movers Click Here.
 
If you wish to speak with our friendly security specialists don’t hesitate give us a call on 1300 73 83 93.

The new “Knight In Shining Armour” on the block that’s watching over our homes. What could possibly be better?
Well to fully explain, we’ll need to start with the age old saying ‘Home is where the heart is’.

Imagine this, it’s a bitterly cold winter’s night and you’re stuck in the office. It’s after hours and you’re finding yourself stuck doing some extra work that wasn’t even yours to begin with and the only thing you can hear is the slight hum of the florescent lights above you.

You’re aching to finish up that last page and get away to battle through the frosty winter night to get home to a piping hot shower, before making a bee line straight for bed.
Sound familiar?

I can personally say that there is nothing better to go home to than my family and my bed.

If you’re one who’d agree with that statement, then it only makes sense that you’d do anything to protect it. Protect it how though?

(For those of you, who are envisaging jumping onto horseback, pacing up and down your front yard with sword in hand, you can close this article now – we’re done here.) But for those of you that are living on the planet earth, stick around while I give you the answer.

No, this isn’t quite what we mean.

What I am referring to is having the backing of a lifesaving service known as back to base monitoring, which is also commonly referred to as security monitoring and alarm monitoring. Once in place, this will ensure you receive a response from police, ambulance and fire services, when you need it most – And the best part, it isn’t intrusive like an armoured knight on the back of a Melbourne cup winner in your front yard, but rather a simple yet sophisticated service that isn’t seen but heard, that allows you to set it and forget it.

These days the majority of us, work long hours and don’t get home till the late evening so when we arrive home all we want to do is relax. If you hear an alarm ring at 2am, what are the odds that you’ll jump out of bed and run next door with baseball bat in hand, to see what’s going on? I’m willing to bet slim to none. So if you’re assuming it would be any different for your neighbours and you’d like to take the risk of waiting for them to come around with a baseball bat, chalk it down now as a foolish mistake.

There was a time where back to base monitoring was only available to big businesses with extravagant budgets, but as time goes on so has the adaption and evolution of security and better yet, it’s made its way to our homes to secure our very own sanctuaries.

Having your own Grade A1 back to base monitoring service for your home, means having the reliability of an immediate response regardless of the situation (For those asking – Grade A1 is essentially the best available service in the country).
Say there is a fire inside your home, what are the first things you do? Grab the kids, grab the pets, grab some photos and get out of the house?

With back to base monitoring, simply press the fire emergency button on the keypad on your way out, and we’ll take care of the rest. Rather than waiting till your outside to make the call, you will save precious seconds even minutes. Or you could go one step further and connect your smoke detectors to your alarm system, and as soon as they are set off, the fire department will be on their way. And in situations such as this, every single second can be the difference from losing one room to losing your whole home.

Now at the end of the day, the fact is you may be reading this as light entertainment, you may be reading this to gain some knowledge, you may even be reading this as someone I know (hi Mum). But let’s put our motives and bias in a little box for a second.

If there is one thing in life that we can all be sure of, it’s that there really is nothing more important than your family and your home.

To protect the things we love, we’ll go to extreme lengths and cover all bases. We have things such as locks and security mesh installed on doors, insurance of our homes, cars and even life insurance. So wouldn’t it make sense to add a *lifesaving* service to the list?

And better yet, what if I told you all of this protection is for a small little insignificant investment of $1.46 a day? To put things into perspective, that is significantly less than a cup of coffee and I’m on 2 plus a day.

If all of this makes sense and you’d like further information click HERE to visit our dedicated page on our Grade A1 Monitoring Service.

Or If you’d prefer having someone explain in further detail, feel free to call through to one of our customer specialists 1300 73 83 93.

Brenton Amos – Customer Relations & Electronic Monitoring Specialist

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